Wildlife Cruise, Oyster Farm & Tasting

Discover how Alaska’s cold, nutrient-rich waters are ideal for growing oysters and kelp by touring a floating farm and then sampling both sustainable products. The tour offers a unique and very exclusive experience with local guides and a maximum of 14 guests. After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a picturesque coastal drive along the Tongass Narrows to Bonfire Bay. From here, you will cruise to Clover Pass, all the while watching for humpback whales, seals and sea lions, which frequent these pristine waters. Be sure to look overhead too, as eagles are also abundant. Upon arriving at Hump Island Oyster Company’s floating oyster farm, you will tour the family-owned floating facility. The deep, nutrient-rich tidal waters of Clover Pass are ideal for farming oysters in trays suspended from cedar floats. The oysters are nurtured as they grow from thumbnail size to market size, and as you will discover it’s a fascinating process. The company was also the first in Alaska to grow kelp at a tour site, another sustainable endeavor only possible because of the bay’s extraordinary water conditions. To delve even deeper into the challenges of aquaculture, your guide will explain the threats to the industry along with the sustainable operation. Next, your inner-child will be delighted with our on-site touch tank featuring critters from the local waters. Make sure to bring your camera as the views are amazing offering great photo opportunities. Still, there is no better way to understand how conditions affect oysters and kelp than to taste the final products in a true farm to table experience. A sampling will reveal that the plump oysters have a unique briny flavor that finishes with a hint of melon. The kelp harvested in Southeast Alaska is used liberally in products such as salsa and seasonings.